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Program Notes | Jan 3–5, 2020

Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet
By Laurie Shulman ©2019

One-Minute Notes

Smetana: “The Moldau” from Má vlast

Smetana’s most famous composition follows the course of a great river, from two springs at its source to the splendor of its convergence with the River Elbe in the north. The music evokes landscape and Bohemian culture with majestic themes.

Clara Schumann: Piano Concerto

Clara Schumann wrote this romantic piano concerto as a teenager, years before she married Robert. The three movements are played without pause, and they reflect the influence of Mendelssohn, Weber and Chopin. Her concerto is a fascinating window into the evolving romantic style.

Prokofiev: Selections from Romeo and Juliet

No ballet composer brought characters to life through music better than Prokofiev. Fierce, grinding drama illustrates animosity between the feuding Verona families. The purity and genuineness of the doomed lovers’ passion comes through in their duets. Prokofiev never forgot that this music was meant to be danced. Rhythm and flexibility are everywhere.